1.
Module Code AUD4100
2. Module Title Principles of Sound and Audio
Practice
3. Level 4
4. Credit Points 30
5. Notional Learning Hours 300
6. Subject Audio Production
7. Module Leader tbc
8. Module Restrictions
a. Prerequisites None
b. Programme Restrictions None
c. Level Restrictions None
d. Other Restrictions or None
Requirements
9. Aims
This module will introduce students to the concept of sound as a physical
phenomenon and will enable them to predict its behaviour in different situations.
Students will develop a basic understanding of key maths and physics concepts
which will support their learning throughout the course; they will also be introduced
to the fundamental concepts of audio production, including the theoretical
foundations and applications of EQs, dynamics processors and various types of
effects. Finally, students will be given the opportunity to familiarise themselves with
the concepts of signal routing (which will enable them to operate equipment in basic
audio environments) and with the basic applications of microphones and
loudspeakers.
10. Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module students will be able to:
Knowledge
K1 Explain the basic principles of sound theory and its key terms such as
wavelength, frequency, amplitude and node;
K2 Demonstrate the basic principles of audio production employed in
typical equipment setups for different audio production environments;
K3 Illustrate the specifications of various types of microphones and
loudspeakers, their functions, and their key components.
Skills
S1 Operate basic audio production equipment;
S2 Apply various filter/EQ types, dynamic and effects processors in a
practical context;
S3 Operate in different kinds of mixing environments;
S4 Perform basic audio editing of recorded material.
1
11. Syllabus
The module is divided into two units as follows (indicative list of key subjects):
Unit AUD4100.1: Introduction to Sound Theory and Critical Listening
● Sound theory
● Essential maths and physics
● Decibels
● Acoustics
● Critical listening
Unit AUD4100.2: Introduction to Audio Production
● Equalisation (EQ), Effects, and dynamic range processors
● Basic Audio Signal Routing and wiring
● Electronics
● Microphones and Loudspeakers
● Introduction to DAW and Sequencing Environments
12. Learning, Teaching and Assessment Strategy
Learning activities include lectures, workshops, seminars, tutorials, presentations
and independent study. Students will produce both practical and written work, and
sit examinations to demonstrate that they have achieved the learning outcomes; (S1,
S2, S3)
Lectures will introduce theoretical, critical/conceptual and technical issues related to
the key topics of the syllabus; they will include guidance for further independent
study, and open up associated issues and invite student questions and subsequent
discussion; (K1, K2, K3)
Seminars and tutorials will enable students to engage critically with the module
topics as well as providing opportunities to reflect on their learning and work in
progress. Sessions may also include individual or group led presentations and be
subject to peer review; (K1, K2, K3)
Practical skills will be facilitated in group demonstrations and workshop sessions,
and students will also engage in individual/project group practical sessions in
studio, lab and workstation environments; (S1, S2, S3, S4)
Where applicable, practical and theoretical learning activities will be organised on a
team-work basis; (K1, K2, K3, S1, S2, S3, S4)
A substantial part of students’ learning will be constructed through independent
self-directed activities, scaffolded through access to lecturer/supervisor/tutor
support and guided study sessions; (K1, K2, K3)
Use of a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) and other e-learning solutions will
enhance the Learning, Teaching and Assessment strategy, facilitating on campus
and remote access to a variety of learning materials, through a combination of
synchronous and asynchronous means; (K1, K2, K3, S1, S2, S3, S4)
2
13. Assessment Weighting
Formative Assessment
Students will be required to undertake a series of 1-3 formative assessment tasks
linked to the summative assessment tasks. The formative assignments will provide a
structured opportunity for students to receive formal feedback that will direct the
learning for each summative assessment task.
Summative Assessment
Summative assessment will take the form of a range of work demonstrating that the
student has met the learning outcomes of the module. The work will normally be
constituted as follows:
Coursework: 70%
Practical Assignment 1 (K2, S1, S3, S4) (30%)
Students must edit a series of audio files using a computer-based system.
Practical Assignment 2 (K2, S1, S2, S3) (40%)
Students must demonstrate their understanding of EQ and dynamics
processing in a computer based exercise.
Unseen examination: 30%
Written Exam 1 (K1, K2, K3) (30%)
A written unseen exam covering all aspects of the module
(Duration: 40 minutes)
14. Learning Materials
NB: The materials identified here are indicative and will be reviewed and updated
annually.
Essential
Bird, J. (2014), Basic Engineering Mathematics, 6th Edn. Oxford: Newnes/Elsevier.
Bishop, O. (2010), Electronics- A first Course, 3rd Edn. Oxford: Newnes/Elsevier.
Rumsey, F. and McCormick, T. (2014), Sound and Recording, 7th Edn. Oxford:
Focal Press.
Recommended
Aldrich, N. (2004), Digital Audio Explained for the Audio Engineer, 2nd Edn. Fort
Wayne: Sweetwater.
Ballou, G. (2008), Handbook for Sound Engineers, 4th Edn. Oxford: Focal Press.
Bartlett, B. (2012), Practical Recording Techniques, 6th Edn. Oxford: Focal Press.
Duncan, T. (2008), Electronics for Today and Tomorrow, London: Hodder Education.
Howard, D. and Angus, J. (2009), Acoustics and Psychoacoustics, 4th Edn. Oxford:
Focal Press.
3
Huber, D.M. & Runstein, R.E. (2013), Modern Recording Techniques, 8th Edn.
Oxford: Focal Press.
Moylan, W. (2007), The Art of Recording- Understanding and Crafting the Mix, 2nd
Edn. Oxford: Focal Press.
Owsinksi, B. (2013), The Recording Engineer’s Handbook, 3rd Edn. Independence,
KY: Cengage Learning PTR.
Toole, Floyd. (2008), Sound Reproduction: The Acoustics and Psychoacoustics of
Loudspeakers and Rooms. Oxford: Focal Press.
Journal of Writing Research [online]. Available at http://www.jowr.org/
SAE Digital Libraries (in particular JSTOR, also AES and ACM). See Campus guide
for access details.
Sound and Music Computing [Online]. Available at
http://smcnetwork.org/resources/journals (Accessed: 26 February 2015).
Sound on Sound. Available at http://www.soundonsound.com. (Accessed 26
February 2015).
15. Module Run
Academic Year Delivery Mode
2015/16 2-year FT, 3-year FT, 4-year PT, 6-year PT
2016/17 2-year FT, 3-year FT, 4-year PT, 6-year PT
2017/18 2-year FT, 3-year FT, 4-year PT, 6-year PT
2018/19 2-year FT, 3-year FT, 4-year PT, 6-year PT
2019/20 2-year FT, 3-year FT, 4-year PT, 6-year PT
2020/21 2-year FT, 3-year FT, 4-year PT, 6-year PT
